Beyond the entertainment offered at SeaWorld San Antonio, lies a world of sciences. From beluga whales to dolphins, the training programs at SeaWorld uses psychology to teach and study behavior in all of their animals. SeaWorld’s reach has a global impact being made through their efforts, offering animal rescue and research and conservation programs. SciTech Now dives in and explores a sea of wonder and science found through research.
Psychology plays an intricate role in the training of animals at SeaWorld. It’s through psychology that trainers are able to communicate with the animals, using positive reinforcement to generate desirable behavior. Trainers create a learning environment that is fun, interesting and stimulating for their animals, but it starts with building strong relationships through interactive sessions.
When training an animal to do a behavior, the trainers break down the behavior into a series of small steps. This makes it easier for the animal to understand the behavior and direction. After several successful repetitions, the animal learns how to complete the behavior. Strong relationships are built through interactive sessions which include learning, exercise, relationship building, play, husbandry, and shows. Learning about the animals, their natural behavior, personalities and species helps trainers understand how to work with them and care for them properly.
It’s through programs like the animal rescue and research that make SeaWorld a global leader in environmental initiatives for over 50 years. Research is an important part of their commitment to conservation, and scientific studies contribute to large research projects worldwide. Focused on four key areas of conservation, SeaWorld has helped protect animals and habitats through global partnerships, species protection programs, and education initiatives.
Watch this fascinating episode of SciTech Now airing Friday, Oct. 14 at 7:30 p.m. on KLRN
